Raising Sunken Lawn Areas from Rodent Tunnels

The Method: Patience and Sand

Vole/gopher tunnels caused a large area to sink 2 inches. To raise without killing grass:

1. Apply thin layer (¼ inch) of sand over sunken area.
2. Allow grass to grow through.
3. Repeat until level.

Critical Rule

Never smother the grass. Each layer must be thin enough for light penetration and photosynthesis. Thick layers kill turf.

Alternative

Most pros (including this one) lack the patience and simply re-sod the area. It's faster and more reliable.